Opel is undergoing a major product overhaul as it begins to transition over from General Motors architectures to PSA Group. Some products will not make the change, however.
Yesterday, Opel announced that the Adam city car, Cascada convertible, and the KARL city car will end production at the end of 2019. The company blames new emission rules for the canceling of these models, but some suspect the low-margin on these vehicles is what ultimately led to their demise.
"In order to contribute to the CO2 compliance and to focus on high volume segments, the Opel ADAM, KARL and Cascada will not be replaced after the end of their life cycles, but will remain on sale until the end of 2019," the company said in a statement.
This announcement has some wondering about the future of Buick's Cascada. A spokesman for the brand told Automotive News that Buick "not confirming anything at this point" regarding the brand's plans for the Cascada. Although, AN's Future Product Pipeline reports that the Buick version could be discontinued sooner than later.
On the flipside, Opel will be launching eight all-new or refreshed vehicles beginning early next year. This will include a new Corsa subcompact and replacement for the Mokka X (what we know as the Buick Encore).
Source: Reuters, Automotive News (Subscription Required), Opel
Opel to Launch Eight All-New or Refreshed Models by 2020
Stronger customer orientation and dealer performance
Focus on high volume and high growth segments with three key launches by 2020: all-new Corsa, Vivaro and Mokka X successor
Ensure CO2 compliance with state-of-the-art technology: four electrified vehicles by end of 2020; 100 percent electrification by 2024; further improved combustion engines
Rüsselsheim. Opel is continuing to execute the PACE! plan product offensive to meet customer needs and ensure compliance with the drastic Europe-wide CO2 guidelines which become effective in 2020. The future portfolio will ensure a sustainable, successful future for both the company and its dealer network. From early 2019 to the end of 2020, the company will launch eight all-new or refreshed models, investing primarily in high-volume and profitable segments. By then, Opel will be offering one of the newest portfolios of all volume manufacturers.
With its PACE! plan, Opel has clearly committed to bringing at least one all-new model onto the market every year. In 2019 alone, Opel will launch the new generation of the bestselling Corsa and the successor to the successful Vivaro as LCV and passenger car variants. Additional variants and equipment versions of the Combo will also be on sale, thus significantly renewing the LCV portfolio. The successor to the hugely popular Opel Mokka X will follow in 2020 and will play a pivotal role for the strategy to expand the proportion of the company’s SUV sales from 25 to 40 percent by 2021.
“Opel goes electric” was one of the commitments made by the company in November 2017 as part of its PACE! plan. Order books for both the all-electric new five-seater Corsa and the Grandland X PHEV which will be produced in Eisenach will be open by the summer of 2019. By the end of 2020, Opel will have a total of four electrified models on offer, providing a lot of driving pleasure and transforming e-car demand from niche to volume. By 2024, there will be an electrified version of every Opel model. Opel will make highly interesting offers, both technically and economically, and will democratise electro-mobility while further improving its combustion engines.
In order to contribute to the CO2 compliance and to focus on high volume segments, the Opel ADAM, KARL and Cascada will not be replaced after the end of their life cycles, but will remain on sale until the end of 2019. With the new portfolio, Opel will continue to cover around 80 percent of the mainstream market volume in 2020 – with significantly higher efficiency and customer-orientation while simultaneously reducing complexity.
“In a context of drastic CO2 norms, it’s our responsibility to shape a sustainable future for our company and our dealers with a highly competitive portfolio for passenger and light commercial vehicles. Opel will offer fun to drive and emotionally designed models including highly competitive light commercial vehicles such as the new Combo and Vivaro. The customers will benefit from the broad introduction of innovative technologies and affordable electrification,” said Opel CEO Michael Lohscheller. “The most recent awards – like the IVOTY 2019 for our Combo – demonstrate that we are on the right path.”
The German manufacturer with almost 120 years of automotive tradition is leveraging Groupe PSA platforms and innovative propulsion technologies for all new models. Opel has impressively demonstrated its efficiency this year: the entire portfolio was and is fully available from dealers in time for the transition to the new Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure standard (WLTP). Moreover, Opel is already fully ready for the new Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standard and offers 127 passenger car models that meet the requirements which will come into effect for all new registrations in September 2019. “Our commitment to Euro 6d-TEMP is part of our strategy to become a leader in the reduction of vehicle emissions and a key pillar of our customer-centric approach. Whoever buys a new Opel now must not fear a city driving ban from today’s perspective,” said Lohscheller.
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Opel is undergoing a major product overhaul as it begins to transition over from General Motors architectures to PSA Group. Some products will not make the change, however.
Yesterday, Opel announced that the Adam city car, Cascada convertible, and the KARL city car will end production at the end of 2019. The company blames new emission rules for the canceling of these models, but some suspect the low-margin on these vehicles is what ultimately led to their demise.
"In order to contribute to the CO2 compliance and to focus on high volume segments, the Opel ADAM, KARL and Cascada will not be replaced after the end of their life cycles, but will remain on sale until the end of 2019," the company said in a statement.
This announcement has some wondering about the future of Buick's Cascada. A spokesman for the brand told Automotive News that Buick "not confirming anything at this point" regarding the brand's plans for the Cascada. Although, AN's Future Product Pipeline reports that the Buick version could be discontinued sooner than later.
On the flipside, Opel will be launching eight all-new or refreshed vehicles beginning early next year. This will include a new Corsa subcompact and replacement for the Mokka X (what we know as the Buick Encore).
Source: Reuters, Automotive News (Subscription Required), Opel
Opel to Launch Eight All-New or Refreshed Models by 2020
Stronger customer orientation and dealer performance
Focus on high volume and high growth segments with three key launches by 2020: all-new Corsa, Vivaro and Mokka X successor
Ensure CO2 compliance with state-of-the-art technology: four electrified vehicles by end of 2020; 100 percent electrification by 2024; further improved combustion engines
Rüsselsheim. Opel is continuing to execute the PACE! plan product offensive to meet customer needs and ensure compliance with the drastic Europe-wide CO2 guidelines which become effective in 2020. The future portfolio will ensure a sustainable, successful future for both the company and its dealer network. From early 2019 to the end of 2020, the company will launch eight all-new or refreshed models, investing primarily in high-volume and profitable segments. By then, Opel will be offering one of the newest portfolios of all volume manufacturers.
With its PACE! plan, Opel has clearly committed to bringing at least one all-new model onto the market every year. In 2019 alone, Opel will launch the new generation of the bestselling Corsa and the successor to the successful Vivaro as LCV and passenger car variants. Additional variants and equipment versions of the Combo will also be on sale, thus significantly renewing the LCV portfolio. The successor to the hugely popular Opel Mokka X will follow in 2020 and will play a pivotal role for the strategy to expand the proportion of the company’s SUV sales from 25 to 40 percent by 2021.
“Opel goes electric” was one of the commitments made by the company in November 2017 as part of its PACE! plan. Order books for both the all-electric new five-seater Corsa and the Grandland X PHEV which will be produced in Eisenach will be open by the summer of 2019. By the end of 2020, Opel will have a total of four electrified models on offer, providing a lot of driving pleasure and transforming e-car demand from niche to volume. By 2024, there will be an electrified version of every Opel model. Opel will make highly interesting offers, both technically and economically, and will democratise electro-mobility while further improving its combustion engines.
In order to contribute to the CO2 compliance and to focus on high volume segments, the Opel ADAM, KARL and Cascada will not be replaced after the end of their life cycles, but will remain on sale until the end of 2019. With the new portfolio, Opel will continue to cover around 80 percent of the mainstream market volume in 2020 – with significantly higher efficiency and customer-orientation while simultaneously reducing complexity.
“In a context of drastic CO2 norms, it’s our responsibility to shape a sustainable future for our company and our dealers with a highly competitive portfolio for passenger and light commercial vehicles. Opel will offer fun to drive and emotionally designed models including highly competitive light commercial vehicles such as the new Combo and Vivaro. The customers will benefit from the broad introduction of innovative technologies and affordable electrification,” said Opel CEO Michael Lohscheller. “The most recent awards – like the IVOTY 2019 for our Combo – demonstrate that we are on the right path.”
The German manufacturer with almost 120 years of automotive tradition is leveraging Groupe PSA platforms and innovative propulsion technologies for all new models. Opel has impressively demonstrated its efficiency this year: the entire portfolio was and is fully available from dealers in time for the transition to the new Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure standard (WLTP). Moreover, Opel is already fully ready for the new Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standard and offers 127 passenger car models that meet the requirements which will come into effect for all new registrations in September 2019. “Our commitment to Euro 6d-TEMP is part of our strategy to become a leader in the reduction of vehicle emissions and a key pillar of our customer-centric approach. Whoever buys a new Opel now must not fear a city driving ban from today’s perspective,” said Lohscheller.

A new report from Automotive News says BMW could be expanding their lineup of vehicles in both directions.
On the low end is the 1-Series sedan. Already on sale in China, the model could be coming to U.S. in early 2019 according to a source. Previously, BMW said their small front-wheel drive sedan would not be sold in the U.S. But with Mercedes-Benz bringing the A-Class sedan to U.S. next year, this may have cause BMW to change their minds. A quick refresher, the 1-Series sedan is a front-wheel drive model.
Moving over to the high-end, BMW is readying the 8-Series coupe to debut late next year. They have already shown a concept to give us an idea of what it may look like (to our eyes, it reminds us slightly of the Lexus LC coupe). It will be based on the 7-Series sedan, complete with the CLAR architecture. A convertible and Gran Coupe (4-door coupe) will be introduced at a later date. What will this mean for the 6-Series? Aside from the new 6-series Gran Turismo, expect the rest of the 6-Series family to fade away in the coming years.
Some other bits of information from Automotive News' report,
The X2 will go on sale sometime in the first quarter of 2018. It will be based on the X1 and feature coupe-like styling.
BMW's 7-Seat X7 will debut next month at the Frankfurt Motor Show, but will not arrive to the U.S. until 2019.
A new 3-Series will go on sale before the end of 2018 and use BMW's CLAR architecture. A concept electric version is expected to debut at Frankfurt.
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)
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A new report from Automotive News says BMW could be expanding their lineup of vehicles in both directions.
On the low end is the 1-Series sedan. Already on sale in China, the model could be coming to U.S. in early 2019 according to a source. Previously, BMW said their small front-wheel drive sedan would not be sold in the U.S. But with Mercedes-Benz bringing the A-Class sedan to U.S. next year, this may have cause BMW to change their minds. A quick refresher, the 1-Series sedan is a front-wheel drive model.
Moving over to the high-end, BMW is readying the 8-Series coupe to debut late next year. They have already shown a concept to give us an idea of what it may look like (to our eyes, it reminds us slightly of the Lexus LC coupe). It will be based on the 7-Series sedan, complete with the CLAR architecture. A convertible and Gran Coupe (4-door coupe) will be introduced at a later date. What will this mean for the 6-Series? Aside from the new 6-series Gran Turismo, expect the rest of the 6-Series family to fade away in the coming years.
Some other bits of information from Automotive News' report,
The X2 will go on sale sometime in the first quarter of 2018. It will be based on the X1 and feature coupe-like styling.
BMW's 7-Seat X7 will debut next month at the Frankfurt Motor Show, but will not arrive to the U.S. until 2019.
A new 3-Series will go on sale before the end of 2018 and use BMW's CLAR architecture. A concept electric version is expected to debut at Frankfurt.
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

Automakers know they have to stay on top of changing trends to be competitive or they'll end up behind the pack. That is currently the case with Hyundai as they are playing catch up to meet the growing demand for crossovers. But the company is readying an ambitious plan that will see their product design cycles cut in half.
Luc Donckerwolke, senior vice president of design for Hyundai and Genesis tells Automotive News that he wants to cut the time that it takes from designing to production from about three years today to as little as a year and a half.
"As life cycles get shorter, they will get drastically shorter. I have no doubt design can be shortened by half," said Donckerwolke.
To help with this plan, Hyundai has opened a new 330,000 square feet design studio at the company's Namyang R&D Center. The new studio is more than double the size of the old one and will allow designers for both Hyundai and Genesis to work on 25 projects at the same time. According to Donckerwolke, the studio is responsible for about 65 projects. The new studio is said to shave off 30 percent of the typical design cycle.
While Hyundai and Genesis will share the building, designers for the two brands will be separated to keep influence from one another to a minimum.
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

Automakers know they have to stay on top of changing trends to be competitive or they'll end up behind the pack. That is currently the case with Hyundai as they are playing catch up to meet the growing demand for crossovers. But the company is readying an ambitious plan that will see their product design cycles cut in half.
Luc Donckerwolke, senior vice president of design for Hyundai and Genesis tells Automotive News that he wants to cut the time that it takes from designing to production from about three years today to as little as a year and a half.
"As life cycles get shorter, they will get drastically shorter. I have no doubt design can be shortened by half," said Donckerwolke.
To help with this plan, Hyundai has opened a new 330,000 square feet design studio at the company's Namyang R&D Center. The new studio is more than double the size of the old one and will allow designers for both Hyundai and Genesis to work on 25 projects at the same time. According to Donckerwolke, the studio is responsible for about 65 projects. The new studio is said to shave off 30 percent of the typical design cycle.
While Hyundai and Genesis will share the building, designers for the two brands will be separated to keep influence from one another to a minimum.
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)
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The past few years has seen Nissan expanding their lineup of NISMO performance models around the world. But that isn't enough as Nissan plans on expanding NISMO into more markets.
To that end, the company announced a new unit called the NISMO Cars Business Unit. This will be part of Autech Japan, Inc - a Nissan group company that convert vehicles for disabled drivers and tunes performance vehicles. Nissan hopes that the new unit combined with the efforts Nissan Motorsports International Co., Ltd. and other group companies can deliver more NISMO products in a shorter timeframe.
"As a Nissan sub-brand, NISMO further builds upon the core values of Nissan cars. With the combined expertise of Nissan group companies, NISMO road cars will make customers enjoy Nissan cars more than ever," said Takao Katagiri, president and CEO of both Autech Japan and Nissan Motorsports International.
Nissan doesn't make any mention of what models are under consideration for the NISMO treatment. Currently, Nissan sells NISMO versions of the 370Z, GT-R, Juke, and Sentra in the U.S.
Source: Nissan
Press Release is on Page 2
Nissan sets up new unit to boost NISMO road car business
More high-performance models to be rolled out globally
YOKOHAMA, Japan – Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. has set up a new unit to expand its NISMO road car business by making a greater range of models available to customers in more markets.
The NISMO Cars Business Department is part of Autech Japan, Inc., a Nissan group company that makes converted vehicles. Using talent from Nissan, Autech, Nissan Motorsports International Co., Ltd. and other group companies, it will plan and develop more appealing products in a shorter time.
Nissan plans to expand the range of NISMO road cars to new segments, market them more globally and boost the lineup in existing markets, including Japan, North America, Europe and the Middle East. This will help increase sales of NISMO cars, which are now about 15,000 units a year.
Nissan introduced the NISMO brand to its mainstream model lineup in 2013 to bring customers more innovations and excitement. Featuring performance and styling developed through NISMO's motorsports activities, the cars offer a sporty driving experience combined with Nissan's quality, reliability and durability.
NISMO road cars introduced so far include the GT-R, 370Z, JUKE and Sentra in the U.S. – plus the Note and Patrol in markets outside the U.S.
"As a Nissan sub-brand, NISMO further builds upon the core values of Nissan cars," said Takao Katagiri, president and CEO of both Autech Japan and Nissan Motorsports International. "With the combined expertise of Nissan group companies, NISMO road cars will make customers enjoy Nissan cars more than ever."
The new business unit will also work with Nissan Motorsports International on marketing. This includes showing NISMO road cars at Nissan dealerships and showrooms and holding events and activities for NISMO car owners.
View full article

The past few years has seen Nissan expanding their lineup of NISMO performance models around the world. But that isn't enough as Nissan plans on expanding NISMO into more markets.
To that end, the company announced a new unit called the NISMO Cars Business Unit. This will be part of Autech Japan, Inc - a Nissan group company that convert vehicles for disabled drivers and tunes performance vehicles. Nissan hopes that the new unit combined with the efforts Nissan Motorsports International Co., Ltd. and other group companies can deliver more NISMO products in a shorter timeframe.
"As a Nissan sub-brand, NISMO further builds upon the core values of Nissan cars. With the combined expertise of Nissan group companies, NISMO road cars will make customers enjoy Nissan cars more than ever," said Takao Katagiri, president and CEO of both Autech Japan and Nissan Motorsports International.
Nissan doesn't make any mention of what models are under consideration for the NISMO treatment. Currently, Nissan sells NISMO versions of the 370Z, GT-R, Juke, and Sentra in the U.S.
Source: Nissan
Press Release is on Page 2
Nissan sets up new unit to boost NISMO road car business
More high-performance models to be rolled out globally
YOKOHAMA, Japan – Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. has set up a new unit to expand its NISMO road car business by making a greater range of models available to customers in more markets.
The NISMO Cars Business Department is part of Autech Japan, Inc., a Nissan group company that makes converted vehicles. Using talent from Nissan, Autech, Nissan Motorsports International Co., Ltd. and other group companies, it will plan and develop more appealing products in a shorter time.
Nissan plans to expand the range of NISMO road cars to new segments, market them more globally and boost the lineup in existing markets, including Japan, North America, Europe and the Middle East. This will help increase sales of NISMO cars, which are now about 15,000 units a year.
Nissan introduced the NISMO brand to its mainstream model lineup in 2013 to bring customers more innovations and excitement. Featuring performance and styling developed through NISMO's motorsports activities, the cars offer a sporty driving experience combined with Nissan's quality, reliability and durability.
NISMO road cars introduced so far include the GT-R, 370Z, JUKE and Sentra in the U.S. – plus the Note and Patrol in markets outside the U.S.
"As a Nissan sub-brand, NISMO further builds upon the core values of Nissan cars," said Takao Katagiri, president and CEO of both Autech Japan and Nissan Motorsports International. "With the combined expertise of Nissan group companies, NISMO road cars will make customers enjoy Nissan cars more than ever."
The new business unit will also work with Nissan Motorsports International on marketing. This includes showing NISMO road cars at Nissan dealerships and showrooms and holding events and activities for NISMO car owners.

There are still a lot of unanswered questions concerning the sale of Opel/Vauxhall to PSA Groupe. A fair number deals with Buick as a number of their products (including the new Regal) are intertwined with Opel. GM executives say this will not affect Buick's lineup down the road.
“The sale of Opel will have no impact on the fresh new lineup Buick is building out,” said Duncan Aldred, GM’s vice president of global Buick and GMC during the launch of the 2018 Regal this week.
“This is very much part of our portfolio plan,” said Mark Reuss, GM’s executive vice president of global product development, purchasing, and supply chain to Car and Driver. “As we said, Opel and the engineering/production piece of this is very much intact for all of our global platforms. So, you know, no impact.”
While the deal isn't fully finished yet, Reuss claimed that issues relating to products would be settled before the final transfer takes place. Reuss said he didn't know "of a specific agreement" when asked about if GM would pay PSA Group for engineering work done by Opel.
In related news, Automotive News Europe reports that Opel would continue to build Buick vehicles beyond 2019 in its German factories.
Source: Automotive News Europe (Subscription Required), Car and Driver

There are still a lot of unanswered questions concerning the sale of Opel/Vauxhall to PSA Groupe. A fair number deals with Buick as a number of their products (including the new Regal) are intertwined with Opel. GM executives say this will not affect Buick's lineup down the road.
“The sale of Opel will have no impact on the fresh new lineup Buick is building out,” said Duncan Aldred, GM’s vice president of global Buick and GMC during the launch of the 2018 Regal this week.
“This is very much part of our portfolio plan,” said Mark Reuss, GM’s executive vice president of global product development, purchasing, and supply chain to Car and Driver. “As we said, Opel and the engineering/production piece of this is very much intact for all of our global platforms. So, you know, no impact.”
While the deal isn't fully finished yet, Reuss claimed that issues relating to products would be settled before the final transfer takes place. Reuss said he didn't know "of a specific agreement" when asked about if GM would pay PSA Group for engineering work done by Opel.
In related news, Automotive News Europe reports that Opel would continue to build Buick vehicles beyond 2019 in its German factories.
Source: Automotive News Europe (Subscription Required), Car and Driver
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We know Cadillac is planning a major product offensive beginning with the XT3 crossover next year, along with a few other products such as a seven-seat crossover and a competitor to the Audi A3 and Mercedes CLA. Automobile Magazine reports that Cadillac is planning eight all-new or redesigned models by 2022. They include,
XT3: (Compact crossover) in 2018
CT3: (ATS Replacement) in 2018
XT7: (Seven-seat crossover that is reported to be on Omega. Other reports put say it will use the platform underpinning the redesign Buick Enclave/Chevrolet Traverse) in 2019
CT5: (Replacement for the CTS) in 2019
XT1 or XT2 (Subcompact crossover) in 2020
XT5 Redesign (Possibly going on Omega) in 2021
CT1 or CT2 (A3 and CLA fighter) in 2021
CT8: (Flagship using Omega) in 2021
All of these models are expected to use an evolutionary design theme from the Escala concept. It is still unknown whether or not the CT1/CT2 will use the Delta front-wheel drive platform or use Alpha.
The brand is also planning investments totaling $800 million into their retail operations in the U.S.
Source: Automobile
Pic Credit: William Maley for Cheers and Gears
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We know Cadillac is planning a major product offensive beginning with the XT3 crossover next year, along with a few other products such as a seven-seat crossover and a competitor to the Audi A3 and Mercedes CLA. Automobile Magazine reports that Cadillac is planning eight all-new or redesigned models by 2022. They include,
XT3: (Compact crossover) in 2018
CT3: (ATS Replacement) in 2018
XT7: (Seven-seat crossover that is reported to be on Omega. Other reports put say it will use the platform underpinning the redesign Buick Enclave/Chevrolet Traverse) in 2019
CT5: (Replacement for the CTS) in 2019
XT1 or XT2 (Subcompact crossover) in 2020
XT5 Redesign (Possibly going on Omega) in 2021
CT1 or CT2 (A3 and CLA fighter) in 2021
CT8: (Flagship using Omega) in 2021
All of these models are expected to use an evolutionary design theme from the Escala concept. It is still unknown whether or not the CT1/CT2 will use the Delta front-wheel drive platform or use Alpha.
The brand is also planning investments totaling $800 million into their retail operations in the U.S.
Source: Automobile
Pic Credit: William Maley for Cheers and Gears

Holden was relying on Opel to help supply its upcoming lineup with models such as the Astra and Insignia rebadged as the Commodore. But with the sale of Opel and Vauxhall to PSA Group, the future of Holden's lineup hangs in the balance. But GM is still committed to the Australian brand and the sale of Opel should not have any impact in the near future according to GM president Dan Ammann.
“What I want to emphasise is we are 100 per cent committed to the business in Australia and New Zealand, and we have a lot of exciting things in the pipeline. It’s going to be a really good period of time for the business down there,” said Ammann.
"As a lot of you know there are a lot of people in the business at General Motors that have a lot of history and linkage to Holden and there's nothing we want to see more than seeing the business prosper down there. So we're really committed to making the business work down there."
For the time being, Holden will be getting the Astra and Commodore from Opel as part of the deal between GM and PSA. Ammann did admit that decisions concerning long-term product plans for Holden are up in the air.
"So no specific decisions have been taken on that front. We have, I'd say as a result of yesterday's announcement, more not less opportunities going forward," said Ammann.
"Clearly the current models that are just launching will run through their full lifecycle and what we do after that is yet to be determined."
Source: CarAdvice , Drive.com.au, Wheels
View full article

Holden was relying on Opel to help supply its upcoming lineup with models such as the Astra and Insignia rebadged as the Commodore. But with the sale of Opel and Vauxhall to PSA Group, the future of Holden's lineup hangs in the balance. But GM is still committed to the Australian brand and the sale of Opel should not have any impact in the near future according to GM president Dan Ammann.
“What I want to emphasise is we are 100 per cent committed to the business in Australia and New Zealand, and we have a lot of exciting things in the pipeline. It’s going to be a really good period of time for the business down there,” said Ammann.
"As a lot of you know there are a lot of people in the business at General Motors that have a lot of history and linkage to Holden and there's nothing we want to see more than seeing the business prosper down there. So we're really committed to making the business work down there."
For the time being, Holden will be getting the Astra and Commodore from Opel as part of the deal between GM and PSA. Ammann did admit that decisions concerning long-term product plans for Holden are up in the air.
"So no specific decisions have been taken on that front. We have, I'd say as a result of yesterday's announcement, more not less opportunities going forward," said Ammann.
"Clearly the current models that are just launching will run through their full lifecycle and what we do after that is yet to be determined."
Source: CarAdvice , Drive.com.au, Wheels

If there is one issue that is top of mind for various folks at Cadillac, it is the lack of crossovers. Their sedan-heavy lineup isn't doing them any favors in a marketplace crazy for crossovers and SUVs. The brand does have some breathing room thanks to increasing sales in China, but they know they need crossovers now.
“It’s left us with the obvious difficulty. The core part of our volume lineup is in the market that’s contracting while we are unable, as good as XT5 and Escalade are, we are unable to fully exploit the updraft that’s taking place in the other half of the market,” said Cadillac President Johan de Nysschen to The Detroit News.
The bad news is the first of a handful will not arrive till the second half of 2018 according to de Nysschen. The first is a model that will be smaller than the XT5, what we believe will be called the XT3. Some analysts believe the XT3 will be built at Fairfax Assembly Plant in Kansas City, Kansas. Then a full-size crossover slotted between the XT5 and Escalade will come next. We think this could be the sister model to the Chevrolet Traverse and Buick Enclave. Finally, de Nysschen hinted that an even smaller crossover could arrive after 2020.
That doesn't mean Cadillac isn't working on their sedan lineup either. The XTS is expected to get a refresh later this year. Cadillac will also be launching a sedan to compete with the likes of the Audi A3 and Mercedes-Benz CLA in 2019. A coupe and convertible will join the sedan around the same time. de Nysschen explained the entry-level luxury marketplace is growing and the company wants a piece of it.
Source: The Detroit News

If there is one issue that is top of mind for various folks at Cadillac, it is the lack of crossovers. Their sedan-heavy lineup isn't doing them any favors in a marketplace crazy for crossovers and SUVs. The brand does have some breathing room thanks to increasing sales in China, but they know they need crossovers now.
“It’s left us with the obvious difficulty. The core part of our volume lineup is in the market that’s contracting while we are unable, as good as XT5 and Escalade are, we are unable to fully exploit the updraft that’s taking place in the other half of the market,” said Cadillac President Johan de Nysschen to The Detroit News.
The bad news is the first of a handful will not arrive till the second half of 2018 according to de Nysschen. The first is a model that will be smaller than the XT5, what we believe will be called the XT3. Some analysts believe the XT3 will be built at Fairfax Assembly Plant in Kansas City, Kansas. Then a full-size crossover slotted between the XT5 and Escalade will come next. We think this could be the sister model to the Chevrolet Traverse and Buick Enclave. Finally, de Nysschen hinted that an even smaller crossover could arrive after 2020.
That doesn't mean Cadillac isn't working on their sedan lineup either. The XTS is expected to get a refresh later this year. Cadillac will also be launching a sedan to compete with the likes of the Audi A3 and Mercedes-Benz CLA in 2019. A coupe and convertible will join the sedan around the same time. de Nysschen explained the entry-level luxury marketplace is growing and the company wants a piece of it.
Source: The Detroit News
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As Holden transitions from a local manufacturer to importer, this brings up the concern of what kind of vehicles will be available to brand. Previously, Holden had a limited choice of vehicles to choose from due to the requirement of being right-hand drive. But now, General Motors is promising a larger selection of vehicles for Holden to choose from. This could open the door for various models from the U.S. and other countries.
This change comes down to GM's vehicle architectures becoming more flexible and used globally, along with a new way of thinking as GM's design boss Mike Simcoe explained,
“Where we see there’s a need to have right-hand drive, yeah. We’ll have the ability to make a choice but the architecture will accommodate left- and right-hand drive”
“The reality is as we reduce the total number of architectures they are going to be more global. We don’t design a vehicle specifically for North America anymore, because you always get caught out if you do. The numbers of those is reducing,” Simcoe went on to say.
A key example is the GMC Acadia heading down to Australia as a Holden - due in 2018.
That doesn't mean Holden will be able to pick any model they want freely. They still have to make a business case as to why they need a particular model.
"I think it is looking at what are the global applications because in certain vehicles, like Camaro, there would be markets outside Australia and New Zealand, and understanding looking through it a lens of; does this make business sense? Does this make customer sense? Is it the right thing to do from a competitive perspective? So it's really a mix of variables that we take into account," said Lowell Paddock, head of product planning for General Motors International.
Source: Drive.com.au, Wheels

As Holden transitions from a local manufacturer to importer, this brings up the concern of what kind of vehicles will be available to brand. Previously, Holden had a limited choice of vehicles to choose from due to the requirement of being right-hand drive. But now, General Motors is promising a larger selection of vehicles for Holden to choose from. This could open the door for various models from the U.S. and other countries.
This change comes down to GM's vehicle architectures becoming more flexible and used globally, along with a new way of thinking as GM's design boss Mike Simcoe explained,
“Where we see there’s a need to have right-hand drive, yeah. We’ll have the ability to make a choice but the architecture will accommodate left- and right-hand drive”
“The reality is as we reduce the total number of architectures they are going to be more global. We don’t design a vehicle specifically for North America anymore, because you always get caught out if you do. The numbers of those is reducing,” Simcoe went on to say.
A key example is the GMC Acadia heading down to Australia as a Holden - due in 2018.
That doesn't mean Holden will be able to pick any model they want freely. They still have to make a business case as to why they need a particular model.
"I think it is looking at what are the global applications because in certain vehicles, like Camaro, there would be markets outside Australia and New Zealand, and understanding looking through it a lens of; does this make business sense? Does this make customer sense? Is it the right thing to do from a competitive perspective? So it's really a mix of variables that we take into account," said Lowell Paddock, head of product planning for General Motors International.
Source: Drive.com.au, Wheels
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Lexus executives admit there are some holes in their lineup such as not having a subcompact or three-row crossover. Speaking with Automotive News, Lexus General Manager Jeff Bracken said the brand is losing as many as 70,000 potential vehicle sales by not competing in certain segments.
"We do think there's room to fill some gaps that still exist for Lexus," said Bracken.
One possibility is introducing a subcompact crossover possibly with a production version of the UX concept.
"That's a gap we are watching very closely. We're very fixated on trying to move that conversation forward with our parent corporation."
Also up for consideration is a three-row crossover and expanding the F-series performance family - might include an LC-F.
One surprise to come out is Lexus doing an electric vehicle. According to Bracken, the brand started investigating possibilities after the Paris Motor Show where many European luxury automakers pushed this idea.
"It was amazingly focused. Subsequent to that show, from my standpoint, we began conversations with our product planners," said Bracken.
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)
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Lexus executives admit there are some holes in their lineup such as not having a subcompact or three-row crossover. Speaking with Automotive News, Lexus General Manager Jeff Bracken said the brand is losing as many as 70,000 potential vehicle sales by not competing in certain segments.
"We do think there's room to fill some gaps that still exist for Lexus," said Bracken.
One possibility is introducing a subcompact crossover possibly with a production version of the UX concept.
"That's a gap we are watching very closely. We're very fixated on trying to move that conversation forward with our parent corporation."
Also up for consideration is a three-row crossover and expanding the F-series performance family - might include an LC-F.
One surprise to come out is Lexus doing an electric vehicle. According to Bracken, the brand started investigating possibilities after the Paris Motor Show where many European luxury automakers pushed this idea.
"It was amazingly focused. Subsequent to that show, from my standpoint, we began conversations with our product planners," said Bracken.
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

Trying to figure out what is coming down the pipeline at Alfa Romeo is an exercise in frustration. It seems a month doesn't go by without something changing, whether it be a new model or plans being scrapped for another. Automotive News has done their best to figure out what's in and out for Alfa Romeo.
Let's begin with what has been scrapped. First is the flagship sedan to take on the likes of the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. This sedan would have used an extended version of the Giulia's RWD platform known as Giorgio. Second is a larger roadster that would have shared the platform and powertrains of the Giulia. The roadster being shelved is due to global sales of roadsters declining.
So what's left in the pipeline? There is large crossover that will share the underpinnings with the upcoming Stelvio. This model is being primarily aimed for the Chinese and U.S. markets. The other is a Giulia coupe that will take on the BMW 4-Series. Expect a similar engine lineup to the sedan. No date was given for either model.
One model still up in the air is the possible replacement for the Giulietta compact. Alfa Romeo is running the numbers to see whether it makes sense to go with rear-wheel drive with a shortened Giorgio platform or stick with front-wheel drive.
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

Trying to figure out what is coming down the pipeline at Alfa Romeo is an exercise in frustration. It seems a month doesn't go by without something changing, whether it be a new model or plans being scrapped for another. Automotive News has done their best to figure out what's in and out for Alfa Romeo.
Let's begin with what has been scrapped. First is the flagship sedan to take on the likes of the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. This sedan would have used an extended version of the Giulia's RWD platform known as Giorgio. Second is a larger roadster that would have shared the platform and powertrains of the Giulia. The roadster being shelved is due to global sales of roadsters declining.
So what's left in the pipeline? There is large crossover that will share the underpinnings with the upcoming Stelvio. This model is being primarily aimed for the Chinese and U.S. markets. The other is a Giulia coupe that will take on the BMW 4-Series. Expect a similar engine lineup to the sedan. No date was given for either model.
One model still up in the air is the possible replacement for the Giulietta compact. Alfa Romeo is running the numbers to see whether it makes sense to go with rear-wheel drive with a shortened Giorgio platform or stick with front-wheel drive.
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)
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Last year at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, FCA introduced the Challenger GT concept that featured AWD. The premise was you could have a four-seasons muscle car. It seems this idea got enough traction that FCA is going forward with it.
Automotive News reports that Dodge will introduce Challenger GT AWD this fall. Unlike the concept that featured a 5.7L HEMI V8, the production model will only be available with the base V6. In 2017, a widebody Challenger with the supercharged Hellcat V8 will be introduced. It will be called the Challenger ADR.
Other interesting tidbits from Automotive News concerning Dodge,
The Charger and Challenger will finally be redesigned in 2018. The models will swap the LX platform for the new Giorgio platform. This will cut a fair amount of weight out of both models - 400 lbs for Charger, 500 lbs for Challenger
Durango will get a SRT version with a 6.4L HEMI V8 for 2017
A convertible known as the Barracuda will debut in 2021. It will use the Giorgio platform that will underpin the new Charger and Challenger
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

Last year at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, FCA introduced the Challenger GT concept that featured AWD. The premise was you could have a four-seasons muscle car. It seems this idea got enough traction that FCA is going forward with it.
Automotive News reports that Dodge will introduce Challenger GT AWD this fall. Unlike the concept that featured a 5.7L HEMI V8, the production model will only be available with the base V6. In 2017, a widebody Challenger with the supercharged Hellcat V8 will be introduced. It will be called the Challenger ADR.
Other interesting tidbits from Automotive News concerning Dodge,
The Charger and Challenger will finally be redesigned in 2018. The models will swap the LX platform for the new Giorgio platform. This will cut a fair amount of weight out of both models - 400 lbs for Charger, 500 lbs for Challenger
Durango will get a SRT version with a 6.4L HEMI V8 for 2017
A convertible known as the Barracuda will debut in 2021. It will use the Giorgio platform that will underpin the new Charger and Challenger
Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)
View full article

Please do not adjust your monitor. What you are seeing is a real vehicle.
Today, Holden announced five new and refreshed models that would be appearing within the next year. The big news is the GMC Acadia will be sold as a Holden starting with the 2018 model year. The model will be offered exclusively with the 3.6L V6 and the choice of either front or all-wheel drive. Why is Holden waiting till 2018 to start selling the Acadia? Holden will be doing a development program to ready the vehicle for Australian roads. The company recently did this with the updated Colorado and reviewers in Australia said it was an improvement over the old model.
“SUVs are the fastest-growing segment of the market and we’re currently under-represented, but that’s changing, fastI ’m particularly excited, however, to reveal further details around our SUV strategy, headlined by the all-new, seven-seat Acadia. Alongside Trax, Trailblazer and another all-new global SUV that we’ll add to our portfolio soon, Holden will introduce four new SUVs by 2018. This puts us in a great position in the fastest-growing segment of the market,” said Holden managing director Mark Bernhard.
The other four models are,
Trailblazer (Updated and renamed Colorado7)
Next-generation Astra
Updated Berlina (Chevrolet Spark)
Updated Trax
Holden plans on launching each of the four models every month starting in October with the Trailblazer.
Source: Holden Press Release is on Page 2
Holden’s New Vehicle Onslaught Continues with Reveal Of Astra, Barina, Trailblazer, Trax and All-New Acadia SUV
Holden reveals five new vehicles, including the seven-seat Acadia SUV and Astra small car at exclusive business briefing event in Melbourne overnight
Acadia and Astra joined by Barina small car, Trax small SUV and Trailblazer SUV
Acadia to launch in 2018, joins Trax and new Trailblazer, along with another all-new, yet-to-be-revealed global SUV in a complete overhaul of Holden’s SUV range
From September 1, Holden to launch five new cars over the next five months
At an exclusive business briefing event held overnight at Holden’s GM Australia Design Studios in Melbourne, the company hosted the surprise premiere of five new vehicles, headlined by the reveal of the all-new, seven-seat Acadia SUV due in showrooms in 2018.
Alongside the US-sourced Acadia, Holden revealed the all-new Astra hatch, Barina small car, Trax small SUV and Trailblazer full-size SUV to represent the next wave in Holden’s ongoing product revolution, with a particular focus on the critical and growing SUV segment.
Holden Chairman and Managing Director, Mark Bernhard, said Holden was now well underway in delivering on its 2015 commitment to deliver 24 new models by the end 2020.
“From the September 1 launch of Colorado, Holden will launch five new vehicles over the next five months to accelerate our showroom revolution. This level of launch activity hasn’t happened at this company for nearly 15 years and signals our intent loud and clear.
“We’ve already talked a lot about the all-new Astra hatch, the reigning 2016 European Car of the Year, joining our showrooms later this year and the new Barina is a beautiful offering to join the Spark in rejuvenating our small-car portfolio.
“I’m particularly excited, however, to reveal further details around our SUV strategy, headlined by the all-new, seven-seat Acadia. Alongside Trax, Trailblazer and another all-new global SUV that we’ll add to our portfolio soon, Holden will introduce four new SUVs by 2018. This puts us in a great position in the fastest-growing segment of the market.
“The vehicles we’ve revealed reinforce our commitment to introduce the finest global vehicles for Australian customers. The Acadia will be sourced from the US, the Astra from Europe, and the Barina, Trax and Trailblazer from Asia. Holden is in a unique position where we can provide our customers with the best of the best from around the GM world,” said Mr Bernhard.
Pricing and specification of Holden’s new models will be released closer to launch.
Trailblazer: on-sale October 2016
Astra: on-sale November 2016
Barina: on-sale November 2016
Trax: on-sale January 2017
Acadia: on-sale 2018